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Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division P4SMA15CA-M3/5A
- Part No.:
- P4SMA15CA-M3/5A
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Category:
- TVS Diodes
- Package:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Datasheet:
-
P4SMA15CA-M3/5A.pdf
- Description:
- TVS DIODE 12.8VWM 21.2VC DO214AC
- Quantity:
- Payment:
- Shipping:
Inventory:2,694
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Product details
Overview
P4SMA15CA-M3/5A from Vishay General Semiconductor is a bidirectional surface-mount Transient Voltage Suppressor (TVS) diode in SMA (DO-214AC) package, designed for clamping voltage transients on signal or power lines. It features a 15 V standoff voltage (VWM), 17.1 V minimum breakdown voltage (VBR), 21.2 V maximum clamping voltage (VC) at 18.9 A peak pulse current, and 400 W peak pulse power rating with 10/1000 µs waveform - used to protect MOSFETs, ICs, and sensor signal lines in industrial and automotive electronics.
For engineers reviewing the P4SMA15CA-M3/5A datasheet, P4SMA15CA-M3/5A pinout, P4SMA15CA-M3/5A application, or P4SMA15CA-M3/5A equivalent, key selection criteria include bidirectional clamping capability, low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.24), MSL Level 1 moisture sensitivity, halogen-free RoHS compliance, and AEC-Q101 qualification readiness via HM3 suffix variants.
Technical Context
This TVS diode operates symmetrically in both directions due to its bidirectional construction, enabling protection of AC-coupled or differential signal paths without polarity concerns. Its glass-passivated junction ensures stable leakage performance and fast response time (<1 ns), while the low incremental surge resistance supports effective energy diversion during ESD or lightning-induced surges.
The device is rated for 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) up to 91 V, derating to 300 W above that threshold, and maintains reliable operation across -65 °C to +150 °C junction temperature range. Thermal resistance is 120 °C/W (junction-to-ambient) on standard 0.2" × 0.2" copper pads, requiring careful PCB thermal design for repetitive surge conditions.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Value and Actual Design Meaning |
|---|---|
| VWM (Stand-off Voltage) | 12.8 V - Maximum continuous reverse working voltage before conduction begins; defines safe operating margin below clamping threshold. |
| VBR (Breakdown Voltage) | 14.3–15.8 V at 1 mA - Voltage at which device enters avalanche breakdown; ensures predictable turn-on behavior under transient stress. |
| VC (Clamping Voltage) | 21.2 V at 18.9 A - Maximum voltage seen by protected circuit during 10/1000 µs surge; determines residual stress on downstream components. |
| PPPM (Peak Pulse Power) | 400 W - Energy-handling capacity for single non-repetitive transients; sufficient for IEC 61000-4-5 Level 3 (1 kV/2 Ω) surge testing. |
| IPPM (Peak Pulse Current) | 18.9 A - Peak current the device safely shunts during standardized 10/1000 µs waveform; directly tied to VC and layout parasitics. |
| TJmax | +150 °C - Maximum allowable junction temperature; sets upper limit for ambient + power dissipation in thermal design. |
| Package | SMA (DO-214AC) - Surface-mount package with 2.54 mm lead pitch; compatible with automated placement and reflow soldering per J-STD-020 MSL Level 1. |
Pinout & Package
SMA (DO-214AC) package: molded plastic body with two coplanar matte tin-plated leads; no polarity marking for bidirectional devices; terminals are anode and cathode symmetrically arranged for dual-direction conduction.
| Pin/Terminal | Circuit Role | Design Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| Anode | Transient current entry point (either direction) | One terminal of symmetrical PN junction; accepts surge current regardless of polarity relative to cathode. |
| Cathode | Transient current exit point (either direction) | Second terminal of symmetrical PN junction; completes low-impedance path to ground or return rail during clamping. |
Key Features
| Feature | Design Value |
|---|---|
| Bidirectional clamping | Enables protection of AC, differential, or floating signal lines without polarity constraints - critical for RS-485, CAN, or sensor bridges. |
| 400 W peak pulse power (10/1000 µs) | Supports robust immunity against IEC 61000-4-5 surges up to 1 kV open-circuit / 0.5 kV short-circuit test levels in industrial environments. |
| Low clamping ratio (VC/VBR ≈ 1.24) | Minimizes overvoltage exposure to protected ICs - e.g., keeps 3.3 V or 5 V logic within safe absolute maximum ratings during transients. |
| Halogen-free, RoHS-compliant (M3 suffix) | Meets environmental compliance requirements for global OEMs and eliminates corrosive halogen emissions during board rework or end-of-life processing. |
| AEC-Q101 qualification path (HM3 variant) | Supports automotive-grade reliability validation - essential for ADAS sensors, body control modules, and infotainment interfaces. |
Applications
| Automotive Sensor Protection | Industrial RS-485 Interface |
|---|---|
|
Use Scenario: Protecting analog output lines of pressure or temperature sensors in engine control units exposed to load dump and ISO 7637-2 pulses. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Bidirectional TVS placed across sensor output and ground to clamp ±200 V transients without polarity biasing. Use Value: Prevents latch-up or gate oxide damage in downstream op-amps and ADCs by limiting voltage to ≤21.2 V during 18.9 A surge events. |
Use Scenario: Shielding RS-485 transceivers in factory automation PLCs from EFT bursts and cable discharge events. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Placed differentially between A/B bus lines and common-mode ground to suppress common-mode surges. Use Value: Maintains data integrity by holding bus differential voltage within transceiver common-mode range during 400 W transient events. |
| Consumer USB Port ESD | Power Supply Input Stage |
|
Use Scenario: Safeguarding USB 2.0 D+/D− lines in smart home hubs against human-body-model (HBM) ESD up to ±15 kV. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Low-capacitance bidirectional TVS mounted directly at connector to minimize trace inductance. Use Value: Limits transient overshoot to <22 V within <1 ns, preventing damage to USB PHY without degrading 480 Mbps signal integrity. |
Use Scenario: Front-end protection of 12 V DC input rails in embedded controllers subjected to inductive switching spikes. IC Role / Device Role / Timing Role: Connected between input rail and chassis ground to divert 18.9 A surge currents away from LDOs and microcontrollers. Use Value: Sustains system uptime by absorbing 400 W surges without failure, avoiding brownouts or reset events during motor actuation. |
Equivalent & Alternatives
The following parts are listed as comparable options for similar transient suppression applications.
| Alternative Part | Technical Difference | Application Difference | Selection Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| SMBJ15CA | Same VWM (12.8 V) and VC (24.4 V), but higher PPPM = 600 W in larger SMB (DO-214AA) package; 1.6× footprint area. | Better suited for high-energy surges where PCB space allows; not drop-in due to larger pad layout and 3.5 mm lead pitch. | Select when surge energy exceeds 400 W or thermal budget requires lower RθJA (80 °C/W typical). |
| 1.5KE15CA | Same VWM and VC, but through-hole DO-201 package; 1.5 kW peak power rating; higher IPPM = 65 A. | Used in legacy or high-reliability power supply designs where manual assembly or mechanical ruggedness is prioritized over density. | Choose for prototyping, repair, or applications requiring field-serviceable replacement without reflow equipment. |
Compared with SMBJ15CA and 1.5KE15CA, P4SMA15CA-M3/5A offers optimal balance of compact size, automated assembly compatibility, and certified halogen-free materials - making it preferred for space-constrained, high-volume consumer and industrial PCBs where MSL Level 1 handling and RoHS compliance are mandatory.
Availability
P4SMA15CA-M3/5A is available at Aetrix Electronics and suitable for industrial automation interfaces, automotive sensor modules, and consumer USB protection requiring stable component supply and full traceability.
Supply support for P4SMA15CA-M3/5A includes scheduled delivery planning, volume procurement assistance, BOM continuity management, traceable sourcing, and lifecycle availability coordination for OEM customers, industrial embedded developers, connected-device designers, and electronics production programs.
Manufacturer
Vishay General Semiconductor is a global leader in discrete semiconductors, specializing in diodes, rectifiers, and protection devices with emphasis on reliability, efficiency, and application-specific optimization.
The P4SMA Series targets cost-sensitive, high-volume transient suppression needs in automotive, industrial, and computing systems - delivering standardized TVS performance in compact surface-mount packages with AEC-Q101 qualification pathways.
FAQ
What is the clamping voltage of P4SMA15CA-M3/5A at its rated peak pulse current?
The P4SMA15CA-M3/5A has a maximum clamping voltage (VC) of 21.2 V at 18.9 A peak pulse current (IPPM) under the standard 10/1000 µs waveform. This value is measured per JEDEC test conditions and defines the upper voltage limit imposed on protected circuits during surge events - critical for ensuring downstream ICs remain within absolute maximum ratings. The P4SMA15CA-M3/5A achieves this with a clamping ratio of approximately 1.24 relative to its minimum breakdown voltage.
Is P4SMA15CA-M3/5A suitable for automotive applications?
P4SMA15CA-M3/5A itself is commercial-grade with halogen-free RoHS compliance (M3 suffix), but Vishay offers the AEC-Q101 qualified variant P4SMA15CAHM3_A/I for automotive use. The P4SMA15CA-M3/5A shares identical electrical characteristics and package dimensions, allowing design reuse - however, formal automotive qualification requires the HM3 suffix and associated test documentation. For non-safety-critical body electronics or pre-qualification prototyping, P4SMA15CA-M3/5A is commonly deployed.
What does the "CA" suffix indicate in P4SMA15CA-M3/5A?
The "CA" suffix in P4SMA15CA-M3/5A denotes a bidirectional configuration - meaning the device provides symmetrical transient suppression in both polarities, with identical VBR, VC, and IPPM values for positive and negative surges. This eliminates the need for polarity-aware placement and makes P4SMA15CA-M3/5A ideal for protecting AC-coupled signals, differential buses like RS-485 or CAN, and floating sensor outputs where voltage reversal is possible.
How does the M3 suffix differ from E3 in P4SMA15CA-M3/5A?
The M3 suffix in P4SMA15CA-M3/5A indicates halogen-free, RoHS-compliant construction using bromine- and chlorine-free molding compounds, whereas E3 denotes standard RoHS compliance without halogen-free assurance. Both meet JESD201 Class 2 whisker resistance and J-STD-020 MSL Level 1, but M3 is required for strict environmental programs (e.g., Apple's MRSL, EU Green Public Procurement). Electrically and mechanically, P4SMA15CA-M3/5A and P4SMA15CA-E3/5A are identical.
What is the thermal resistance of P4SMA15CA-M3/5A, and how does it affect layout?
P4SMA15CA-M3/5A has a typical junction-to-ambient thermal resistance (RθJA) of 120 °C/W when mounted on 0.2" × 0.2" (5.0 mm × 5.0 mm) copper pads per terminal. This high RθJA means even modest power dissipation (e.g., 0.5 W average) can raise junction temperature significantly - so layouts must maximize copper area, use thermal vias, and avoid enclosing the device in tight enclosures. For repetitive surges, derating per Figure 2 in the datasheet is mandatory to prevent thermal runaway.
P4SMA15CA-M3/5A Specifications
- Product attributes
- Attribute value
- Manufacturer:
- Vishay General Semiconductor - Diodes Division
- Package/Case:
- DO-214AC, SMA
- Series:
- P4SMA, TransZorb®
- Packaging:
- Tape & Reel (TR)
- Product Status:
- Active
- Type:
- Zener
- Unidirectional Channels:
- -
- Bidirectional Channels:
- 1
- Voltage - Reverse Standoff (Typ):
- 12.8V
- Voltage - Breakdown (Min):
- 14.3V
- Voltage - Clamping (Max) @ Ipp:
- 21.2V
- Current - Peak Pulse (10/1000µs):
- 18.9A
- Power - Peak Pulse:
- 400W
- Power Line Protection:
- No
- Applications:
- General Purpose
- Capacitance @ Frequency:
- -
- Operating Temperature:
- -65°C ~ 150°C (TJ)
- Grade:
- -
- Qualification:
- -
- Mounting Type:
- Surface Mount
- Supplier Device Package:
- DO-214AC (SMA)
P4SMA15CA-M3/5A FAQ
1.How can I place an order for P4SMA15CA-M3/5A through Aetrix?
Please submit a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for P4SMA15CA-M3/5A on Aetrix. Our sales agent will provide a competitive quotation and guide you through the order confirmation once you accept the terms.
2.Are the price and stock information for P4SMA15CA-M3/5A reliable?
The price and inventory of P4SMA15CA-M3/5A are updated periodically and may fluctuate due to market conditions. Stock and pricing data are typically refreshed every 24 hours. Quotation validity for P4SMA15CA-M3/5A is usually 5 days.
3.What payment methods are accepted for P4SMA15CA-M3/5A?
We accept Wire Transfer, PayPal, Credit Card, Western Union, MoneyGram, and Escrow for P4SMA15CA-M3/5A transactions.
Note: Certain payment methods may incur a processing fee.
4.How is shipping managed for P4SMA15CA-M3/5A?
P4SMA15CA-M3/5A orders can be shipped via leading logistics carriers, including DHL, UPS, FedEx, TNT, or Registered Mail.
Once your P4SMA15CA-M3/5A order is processed, you will receive an email with the shipment details and tracking number.
Note: Tracking information may take up to 24 hours to appear. Express delivery typically takes 3–5 business days.
5.How can I obtain technical support or documentation for P4SMA15CA-M3/5A?
For technical support, including P4SMA15CA-M3/5A datasheets, pinout diagrams, or application guidance, please contact our engineering support team. They can provide detailed documentation and assistance for your P4SMA15CA-M3/5A requirements.
6.How does Aetrix verify that P4SMA15CA-M3/5A is sourced from the original manufacturer or authorized distributors?
All P4SMA15CA-M3/5A products on Aetrix are procured from qualified distributors and authorized channels. Our dedicated quality assurance team conducts strict verification, including traceability checks and, if necessary, third-party testing. This ensures that P4SMA15CA-M3/5A meets industry standards.
7.What is the process for return or replacement of P4SMA15CA-M3/5A?
All P4SMA15CA-M3/5A units undergo pre-shipment inspection (PSI). If there is an issue with P4SMA15CA-M3/5A, returns or replacements are accepted under the following conditions:
1.Quantity discrepancies, incorrect items, or visible external defects (such as breakage or corrosion), acknowledged by Aetrix.
2.The issue is reported within 90 days of delivery.
3.The P4SMA15CA-M3/5A part is unused and in its original packaging.
Return procedure for P4SMA15CA-M3/5A:
1.Submit a request within 90 days.
2.Obtain a Return Material Authorization (RMA) from Aetrix.
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